Posted by: Pennie Clor, RN, JD
July 10, 2008
Topic: Topics

Doctors' appointments in general can be overwhelming and intimidating. Good communication establishes an effective patient-physician relationship and is key to receiving good healthcare. This is especially true in today's healthcare setting where the amount of time the doctor can spend with his or her patient is limited and most patients see a variety of providers other than their primary doctor. As a patient the best thing that you can do is be a good communicator and require good communication from your healthcare provider. The following are a few tips to help you get the most from your doctors appointments:

Prepare for your appointment. Understand that your doctor has limited time to listen and make the most of your time by being ready for your appointment. Take time to think about what you want to discuss with your doctor and make a list of topics that you want to go over with him or her and take the list with your to your appointment. Be concise and stick to the facts, give specific examples of your complaints or problems rather than vague or general complaints. If your doctor interrupts you, nicely ask your doctor to stop and listen, let your doctor know that you have concerns that need to be addressed.

If you have questions write them down and take them with you to your appointment. Let your doctor know at the beginning of the appointment that you have specific topics you want to discuss and questions that you want to review with them. If you don't understand a word or concept tell your doctor you don't understand and ask for clarification. It is not only important to you that you understand the information that your doctor is giving you - your doctor should want you to understand what they are telling you and will not mind providing clarification. Take notes during your appointment, this will help you keep track of the information you receive. Make certain that you understand what the plan is for your care before the appointment ends. Do you need a follow-up visit? What is the next step in your care? What do you do if you don't get better? Review your notes with your doctor to ensure that you leave with the correct information.

If you or a loved one are in the hospital it is important to keep a note pad and pen near by - that way if you or your family members have questions you can write them down and address them with your doctors when they make rounds in the hospital.

If you take medications either prescribed or over-the-counter, prepare a list of the medications that you are taking. It is important for your doctor to know about each and every medication you take. Including the dose, length of time that you have been taking the medication, for what condition you take the medication and who prescribed the medication. Be sure to include all prescribed medications, over-the-counter medications, herbal or dietary supplements and vitamins.

If your doctor prescribes a new medication for you, make sure you get all of the information you need. Find out how the medication will help you, any side effects to be aware of, and how you should take the medication. Find out how long it should take for the medication to start working and what you should expect when this happens.

Let your doctor know how you feel. If you feel like you and your doctor are not communicating well, tell your doctor. He or she may be unaware of your concerns. Once you explain your concerns, you and your doctor should come up with a plan on how to increase communication so that both of you get the most out of the appointment.

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